A DOUBLE sponsorship deal has given ambitious Guildford United a fresh lease of life.

Chairman Aran Meadows this week welcomed a joint three-year package from two of the town’s major businesses – A+P Technologies and Colbornes.

And now he is hoping they can all work together with the common aim of securing the Combined Counties club a new ground away from Spectrum.

Already a sub-committee has been formed, including luminaries such as former town mayor John Woodhatch.

Meadows explained: “We have had meetings with the council and hope to be in a better position soon to say what the plans are.”

A+P, based in Walnut Tree Close, have been generous supporters of Guildford sport for many years. Managing director Shahid Azeem explained: “Our sports teams are a big part of what makes Guildford such a vibrant place to live. We always strive to support the local community. We are proud of Guildford's football heritage and are keen to help the club attain former glories.”

He added: “A town the size and stature of this one deserves a high profile senior team.”

Azeem’s view is shared by Richard Neulander, joint MD at VW and Audi retailers Colbornes who are already Woking’s main backers. He said: “We believe that United are on the up and we want to help grow the community spirit behind this team.”

Meadows added: “Not only are the companies putting in valuable sponsorship but Shahid has been to every home game and is helping us with commercial advice – now that's dedication for you.”